Hizentra 2gm/10ml Inj, 10ml

Manufacturer CSL BEHRING Active Ingredient Immune Globulin Injection (Subcutaneous)(i MYUN GLOB yoo lin) Pronunciation hi-ZEN-tra
WARNING: There is a chance of blood clots with this drug. The chance is raised in older people and in people with thick blood, heart problems, or a history of blood clots. The chance may also be higher if you must be in a bed or chair for some time, if you take estrogen, or if you use certain catheters. However, blood clots can happen even if you do not have any of these health problems. Call your doctor right away if you have numbness or weakness on 1 side of your body; pain, redness, tenderness, warmth, or swelling in the arms or legs; change in color of an arm or leg; chest pain or pressure; shortness of breath; fast heartbeat; or coughing up blood. Talk with your doctor.Kidney problems have happened with human immune globulin. Sometimes, these problems have been deadly. Kidney problems are more common in people using products that have sucrose. Most immune globulin products do not have sucrose. The chance of these problems may be raised if you have kidney problems, high blood sugar (diabetes), fluid loss (dehydration) or low blood volume, a blood infection, or proteins in the blood that are not normal. The chance may be raised if you are 65 or older, or if you take other drugs that may harm the kidneys. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about this information or about if your product has sucrose.You will need to be sure that you are not dehydrated before getting this drug. Check with your doctor to see if you need to drink extra fluids before getting this drug. @ COMMON USES: It is used to help prevent infections or make infections less severe in people with a weak immune system.It is used treat chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP).It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
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Drug Class
Immunoglobulin
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Pharmacologic Class
Immune Globulin (Human)
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Pregnancy Category
Category C
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FDA Approved
Sep 2010
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DEA Schedule
Not Controlled

Overview

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What is this medicine?

Hizentra is a medicine made from human blood plasma that contains antibodies (proteins that fight infections). It is used to help people with certain immune system problems (like primary immunodeficiency) fight off infections, or to treat a nerve disorder called CIDP. It is given as an injection under the skin (subcutaneous).
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How to Use This Medicine

Proper Use of This Medication

To use this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. This medication is administered as an infusion under the skin over a period of time. If you are self-administering the injection, your doctor or nurse will provide guidance on the proper technique.

Preparation and Administration

Before using this medication, wash your hands thoroughly. Do not shake the solution. If the medication has been stored in the refrigerator, allow it to reach room temperature before use. Do not heat the medication.

Important Safety Precautions

Do not use this medication if the solution appears cloudy, is leaking, or contains particles. Additionally, do not use it if the solution has changed color or has been frozen. Do not mix this medication with any other liquid medications. Avoid injecting into skin that is irritated, bruised, red, infected, hard, or scarred.

Injection Site Rotation

Rotate the injection site as directed by your doctor to minimize the risk of skin irritation.

Disposal of Needles and Supplies

Dispose of used needles and other sharp objects in a designated needle/sharp disposal box. Do not reuse needles or other items. When the box is full, follow local regulations for proper disposal. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Storage and Disposal

Follow the storage instructions provided with the medication. Read the package insert for specific guidance. If you have questions about storing this medication, consult your pharmacist.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to determine the best course of action.
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Lifestyle & Tips

  • Maintain adequate hydration, especially before and during infusions.
  • Learn proper self-administration technique from a healthcare professional.
  • Rotate injection sites to prevent skin irritation.
  • Keep a log of doses, sites, and any reactions.
  • Report any unusual or severe side effects to your doctor immediately.
  • Avoid live virus vaccines for a period after receiving Hizentra (discuss with your doctor).

Dosing & Administration

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Adult Dosing

Standard Dose: Individualized based on patient's prior IVIG dose or body weight. For Primary Immunodeficiency (PID): Initial weekly dose is calculated from previous IVIG dose (e.g., weekly SCIG dose = previous monthly IVIG dose / 4.33). For Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP): Initial dose 0.2 g/kg weekly for 2-4 weeks, then maintenance 0.2-0.4 g/kg weekly.
Dose Range: 0.2 - 1 mg

Condition-Specific Dosing:

Primary Immunodeficiency (PID): Weekly dose calculated from previous IVIG dose (e.g., weekly SCIG dose = previous monthly IVIG dose / 4.33). Adjust to achieve desired serum IgG trough levels (e.g., 800 mg/dL). Doses typically range from 0.2 to 1.0 g/kg per week or every two weeks.
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP): Initial dose: 0.2 g/kg weekly for 2-4 weeks. Maintenance dose: 0.2 to 0.4 g/kg weekly. Administer in 1-2 sites, up to 15 mL per site. Max infusion rate 20 mL/hr/site.
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Pediatric Dosing

Neonatal: Not established
Infant: Dosing for PID is individualized based on body weight and clinical response, similar to adults. Safety and efficacy established in pediatric patients 2 years and older for PID.
Child: Dosing for PID is individualized based on body weight and clinical response, similar to adults. Safety and efficacy established in pediatric patients 2 years and older for PID. For CIDP, safety and efficacy not established in pediatric patients.
Adolescent: Dosing for PID is individualized based on body weight and clinical response, similar to adults. Safety and efficacy established in pediatric patients 2 years and older for PID. For CIDP, safety and efficacy not established in pediatric patients.
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Dose Adjustments

Renal Impairment:

Mild: Use with caution. Monitor renal function.
Moderate: Use with caution. Monitor renal function. Consider lower doses or slower infusion rates if risk factors for renal dysfunction are present.
Severe: Use with caution. Monitor renal function closely. Consider lower doses or slower infusion rates if risk factors for renal dysfunction are present. Acute renal dysfunction is more common with IVIG, but caution is still warranted with SCIG.
Dialysis: Not specifically studied. Use with caution and monitor renal function. IgG is not significantly removed by dialysis.

Hepatic Impairment:

Mild: No specific dose adjustment recommended.
Moderate: No specific dose adjustment recommended.
Severe: No specific dose adjustment recommended.

Pharmacology

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Mechanism of Action

Hizentra provides passive immunity by increasing the serum IgG levels in patients with primary immunodeficiency (PID) who have impaired IgG production. In chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), the mechanism of action is not fully elucidated but is thought to involve immunomodulatory effects, including neutralization of pathogenic antibodies, modulation of Fc receptors, and inhibition of inflammatory mediators.
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Pharmacokinetics

Absorption:

Bioavailability: Approximately 69% (relative to IVIG) for PID, with steady-state achieved after 4-6 months of weekly administration. For CIDP, bioavailability is approximately 83% (relative to IVIG).
Tmax: Variable, typically 2-5 days for steady-state concentrations after subcutaneous administration.
FoodEffect: Not applicable (parenteral administration).

Distribution:

Vd: Approximately 0.08 L/kg (similar to plasma volume)
ProteinBinding: Not applicable (IgG is a protein itself)
CnssPenetration: Limited (IgG does not readily cross the intact blood-brain barrier, but may be present in CSF in inflammatory conditions).

Elimination:

HalfLife: Approximately 20-40 days (similar to endogenous IgG)
Clearance: Approximately 0.002-0.003 L/hr/kg
ExcretionRoute: Primarily catabolism; minimal renal excretion of intact IgG.
Unchanged: Not applicable (catabolized)
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Pharmacodynamics

OnsetOfAction: Steady-state IgG levels are typically achieved after 4-6 months of weekly administration for PID. Clinical effects may be observed earlier.
PeakEffect: Steady-state IgG trough levels are maintained with regular weekly or bi-weekly dosing.
DurationOfAction: Maintained with regular weekly or bi-weekly dosing, reflecting the half-life of IgG.

Safety & Warnings

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BLACK BOX WARNING

THROMBOSIS: Thrombosis may occur with immune globulin products, including Hizentra. Risk factors may include advanced age, prolonged immobilization, hypercoagulable conditions, history of venous or arterial thrombosis, use of estrogens, indwelling central vascular catheters, hyperviscosity, and cardiovascular risk factors. For patients at risk of thrombosis, administer Hizentra at the minimum dose and infusion rate practicable. Ensure adequate hydration in patients before administration. Monitor for signs and symptoms of thrombosis and assess blood viscosity in patients at risk of hyperviscosity.
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Side Effects

Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away

Although rare, this medication can cause severe and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:

Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of kidney problems, including:
+ Inability to pass urine
+ Changes in urine output
+ Blood in the urine
+ Sudden weight gain
Signs of high or low blood pressure, such as:
+ Severe headache or dizziness
+ Passing out
+ Changes in eyesight
Fever, chills, or sore throat
Unexplained bruising or bleeding
Feeling extremely tired or weak
Blue or gray discoloration of the skin, lips, nail beds, fingers, or toes
Seizures
Bloating
Confusion
Swelling
Abnormal heartbeat
Mood changes
Muscle or joint pain
Changes in speech
Changes in eyesight
Shakiness
Excessive sweating
Severe stomach pain
Dark urine or yellow skin and eyes

Severe Lung Problems and Brain Infection

This medication can cause severe lung problems, which can be life-threatening. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor right away:
Trouble breathing
Shortness of breath
New or worsening cough

Additionally, this medication may increase the risk of aseptic meningitis, a severe brain infection. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately:
Headache
Fever
Chills
Severe stomach upset or vomiting
Stiff neck
Rash
Sensitivity to light
Feeling sleepy or confused

Other Possible Side Effects

Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. While many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones, it's essential to contact your doctor if you're concerned about any of the following:
Irritation at the injection site
Dizziness, tiredness, or weakness
Headache
Upset stomach or vomiting
Stomach pain or diarrhea
Back pain
Muscle spasms
Signs of a common cold
Flushing
* Cramps

Reporting Side Effects

If you have questions or concerns about side effects, contact your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
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Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:

  • Severe headache, neck stiffness, sensitivity to light, nausea, vomiting (signs of aseptic meningitis syndrome)
  • Sudden pain, swelling, warmth, or discoloration in an arm or leg (signs of a blood clot)
  • Shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid heart rate (signs of a blood clot in the lung)
  • Decreased urination, sudden weight gain, swelling (signs of kidney problems)
  • Unusual tiredness, pale skin, dark urine, yellowing of skin or eyes (signs of red blood cell breakdown)
  • Hives, rash, itching, swelling of the face/throat, difficulty breathing, wheezing, dizziness (signs of a severe allergic reaction)
  • Severe pain, swelling, or blistering at the injection site
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Before Using This Medicine

Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor

It is essential to inform your doctor about the following conditions to ensure safe treatment:

Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the allergic reaction you experienced.
If you have IgA deficiency, a condition where your body lacks a specific antibody.
If you have hyperprolinemia, a condition characterized by elevated levels of proline in your blood.
If you have excess fluid in your body or have been advised to monitor your fluid intake.
* If you have low platelet levels, which can affect blood clotting.

This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins, with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help you determine if it is safe to take this medication with your existing treatments and health conditions. Never start, stop, or adjust the dosage of any medication without consulting your doctor first.
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Precautions & Cautions

It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. If you have a latex allergy, consult with your doctor, as some products may contain latex.

Before receiving any vaccines, discuss the potential risks with your doctor, as certain vaccines may not be effective or may increase the risk of infection when taken with this medication.

Regular blood tests and other laboratory evaluations should be performed as directed by your doctor. Be aware that this medication may interfere with certain lab tests, so it is crucial to notify all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this drug.

If you have a weakened immune system and have been exposed to measles, consult with your doctor to discuss the potential risks. This medication is derived from human plasma and, although it is thoroughly screened, tested, and treated to minimize the risk of infection, it may still pose a risk of transmitting viruses. Discuss this risk with your doctor.

Some products may contain maltose, which can affect the accuracy of certain glucose tests. Inaccurate glucose test results can lead to improper treatment of high or low blood sugar, potentially resulting in long-term consequences or even death. Consult with your doctor to determine the most suitable blood sugar tests to use.

If you are 65 years or older, exercise caution when taking this medication, as you may be more susceptible to side effects.

If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor to discuss the potential benefits and risks to you and your baby.
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Overdose Information

Overdose Symptoms:

  • Overdose is unlikely with subcutaneous administration due to slow absorption and catabolism. However, very large doses could potentially lead to fluid overload or hyperviscosity, especially in susceptible individuals.

What to Do:

Discontinue administration. Monitor vital signs and symptoms. Provide supportive care as needed. Contact a poison control center (e.g., 1-800-222-1222) or seek emergency medical attention.

Drug Interactions

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Major Interactions

  • Live virus vaccines (e.g., measles, mumps, rubella, varicella): May interfere with the immune response to these vaccines. Defer vaccination for at least 3 months after Hizentra administration. For measles, defer for 9 months.
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Moderate Interactions

  • Loop diuretics: While less common with SCIG than IVIG, caution is advised in patients receiving loop diuretics due to potential for increased risk of renal dysfunction, especially in predisposed individuals.

Monitoring

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Baseline Monitoring

Serum IgG trough levels

Rationale: To establish baseline and guide dose adjustments to achieve target therapeutic levels.

Timing: Before initiating therapy and periodically thereafter.

Renal function (BUN, creatinine)

Rationale: To assess baseline renal status, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment or risk factors for acute renal dysfunction.

Timing: Before initiating therapy.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) with differential

Rationale: To assess baseline hematologic status.

Timing: Before initiating therapy.

Vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, temperature)

Rationale: To establish baseline for comparison during infusions.

Timing: Before first infusion.

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Routine Monitoring

Serum IgG trough levels

Frequency: Every 2-3 months initially, then every 6-12 months once stable, or as clinically indicated.

Target: Individualized, typically >800 mg/dL for PID; clinical response for CIDP.

Action Threshold: If levels are consistently below target or clinical response is inadequate, consider dose adjustment.

Renal function (BUN, creatinine)

Frequency: Periodically, especially in patients with risk factors for renal dysfunction or those experiencing adverse events.

Target: Within normal limits for patient.

Action Threshold: Significant increase in BUN/creatinine warrants investigation and potential dose adjustment or discontinuation.

Signs and symptoms of adverse reactions (e.g., infusion site reactions, systemic reactions)

Frequency: During and after each infusion, and with patient self-monitoring.

Target: N/A

Action Threshold: Any severe or persistent reaction requires medical evaluation.

Hydration status

Frequency: Regularly, especially before and during infusions.

Target: Adequate hydration.

Action Threshold: Signs of dehydration require intervention.

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Symptom Monitoring

  • Infusion site reactions (pain, redness, swelling, itching, bruising)
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Fever, chills
  • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
  • Muscle or joint pain
  • Rash, hives
  • Signs of thrombosis (pain, swelling, discoloration of limb, shortness of breath, chest pain)
  • Signs of aseptic meningitis syndrome (severe headache, neck stiffness, photophobia, nausea, vomiting, fever)
  • Signs of renal dysfunction (decreased urine output, swelling, weight gain)
  • Signs of hemolytic anemia (fatigue, pallor, dark urine, jaundice)
  • Signs of allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, wheezing, swelling of face/throat, severe rash)

Special Patient Groups

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Pregnancy

Hizentra is classified as Pregnancy Category C. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted. However, immune globulins are known to cross the placental barrier, particularly in the third trimester. Clinical experience with immune globulin products suggests no harmful effects on the course of pregnancy, fetus, or neonate. Use only if clearly needed.

Trimester-Specific Risks:

First Trimester: Limited data, but generally considered low risk as IgG transfer is minimal.
Second Trimester: Limited data, but generally considered low risk as IgG transfer increases.
Third Trimester: Significant placental transfer of IgG occurs, potentially providing passive immunity to the fetus. No known adverse effects on the fetus.
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Lactation

Human IgG is excreted into breast milk. The benefits of breastfeeding should be weighed against the potential risks. However, orally ingested immunoglobulins are generally considered safe for the infant as they are largely degraded in the infant's gastrointestinal tract and are not absorbed systemically in significant amounts. No adverse effects on the breastfed infant are expected.

Infant Risk: Low risk (L2)
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Pediatric Use

Safety and efficacy for PID have been established in pediatric patients 2 years of age and older. Dosing is individualized based on body weight and clinical response. For CIDP, safety and efficacy have not been established in pediatric patients. Monitor for adverse reactions, especially infusion site reactions.

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Geriatric Use

No specific dose adjustments are required based on age alone. However, elderly patients may have an increased risk of thrombosis or renal dysfunction, especially if pre-existing risk factors are present. Monitor renal function and hydration status closely.

Clinical Information

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Clinical Pearls

  • Hizentra is for subcutaneous use only; do NOT administer intravenously.
  • Ensure proper training for self-administration, including aseptic technique and site rotation.
  • Patients should be adequately hydrated before and during administration to minimize the risk of adverse events, particularly thrombosis.
  • Infusion site reactions are common but usually mild and transient. Proper site rotation and slower infusion rates can help mitigate these.
  • Patients should carry an emergency card or wear medical identification indicating their condition and treatment.
  • Monitor for signs of aseptic meningitis syndrome, renal dysfunction, and thrombosis, especially in at-risk patients.
  • Live virus vaccines should be deferred for several months after Hizentra administration due to potential interference with vaccine efficacy.
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Alternative Therapies

  • Other subcutaneous immune globulin (SCIG) products (e.g., Cuvitru, Gamunex-C, Gammaked, Xembify, HyQvia)
  • Intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) products (e.g., Gammagard Liquid, Gamunex-C, Octagam, Privigen, Flebogamma)
  • For CIDP, other treatments include corticosteroids, plasma exchange (PLEX), and other immunosuppressants.
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Cost & Coverage

Average Cost: $1000 - $5000+ per 10mL vial (highly variable based on dose and quantity)
Insurance Coverage: Specialty Tier (requires prior authorization, often covered under medical benefit for approved indications)
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General Drug Facts

If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it's essential to contact your doctor for further guidance. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so be sure to check with your pharmacist for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the medication taken, the amount, and the time it happened.